The only match so far to not feature a Wests Tigers player, France fought out a tough one-point victory against the Kumuls.

Remarkably Papua New Guinea managed to score two tries to one against the victorious French side. Goal kicking was the difference in the end with Thomas Bosc converting a try and penalty goal while William Barthaus drop-goal gave France a 9-8 victory.

Returning crowd-favourite Pat Richards faced off with fellow Wests Tigers winger Marika Koroibete in the Group A match between Ireland and Fiji at Spotland Stadium (Rochdale).

Both the Sims (Ashton, Tariq and Korbin) and Naiqama (Wes and Kevin) siblings were excellent for Fiji as Newcastle Knights winger Akuila Uate crossed for three tries to seal a 32-14 victory against Ireland.